What is the effect of a vehicle's weight on stopping distance?

The relationship between a vehicle's weight and its stopping distance is based on the principles of physics, specifically inertia. Heavier vehicles possess more mass, which means that they have greater momentum when in motion. To stop a heavier vehicle, the brakes must exert greater force over a longer distance to overcome this momentum. Consequently, as the weight of a vehicle increases, its stopping distance also increases, requiring more time and space to come to a complete stop.

In contrast, lighter vehicles, having less mass, will typically come to a stop more quickly due to their lower momentum. This is why understanding the impact of weight on stopping distances is crucial for drivers, especially for those operating commercial vehicles, where the weight varies significantly depending on the cargo. Knowledge of this relationship helps ensure proper handling and enhances road safety.